A pretty upside-down cottage, formerly a dovecote, lovingly restored with sustainability the focus

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

Throw open French windows to this sleek self-catering space, with off-street parking. Walk to the beach & the pub, visit historic Chichester

A warm, inviting boutique hotel in Shrewsbury’s historic centre; potter about the medieval streets, relax in a sun-catching courtyard

Walkers, nature lovers, couples will love this eco-friendly cottage near Calgary beach: a breath of warmth in the beautiful back of beyond

High in Ávila's unspoilt nature is this stylish, eco-brilliant family hotel: mountains, massages, pool, organic dinners... a special escape

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

Lovely views from this converted farmhouse in peaceful Lot countryside, with terrace, sheltered pool and nine acres of grounds to explore

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

A substantial old house, originally built in 1836 and recently renovated, for grand special occasions with stunning views and a hot tub

Pluck grapes, splash in the child-shallow pool and explore the ‘Yorkshire of Italy’ with rolling green hills and conical trulli

A delightful eyrie surrounded by water, forest, wildflowers in spring and summer, views to distant islands - just a short stroll to Ullapool

Immerse yourself, luxuriously, in beautiful rural Picardy – mirabelle jam, peaceful parkland, walking in the hills – near historic Amiens

A gracious 17th-century manor house and a pretty Grange hidden down a tree-lined drive and with stunning views over woodlands

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city